Looking for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight meal? This Mexican Tortilla Casserole is a vegetarian-friendly dish that can be easily customized with meat for a heartier option. Perfect for meal prep, this casserole freezes and reheats well, making it ideal for busy households or entertaining guests. With layers of tortillas, refried beans, cheese, and salsa, it’s a flavorful twist on traditional lasagna that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef (optional for vegetarian version)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 pack taco seasoning mix
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can refried beans (warmed for easy spreading)
- 1 cup prepared rice (Minute Rice recommended)
- 1 can Mexican blend corn (drained, use about 1/2 can)
- 4-5 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz thick chunky salsa (mild or hot)
This recipe is incredibly versatile—swap ingredients based on your pantry or add extras like bell peppers, kale, or broccoli for a personalized touch. It’s a make-ahead marvel, perfect for Sunday meal prep, and keeps well in the fridge for several days. Serve it with sour cream, diced onion, and shredded lettuce for a restaurant-worthy finish!
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a casserole dish with cooking spray.
- Brown ground beef and onion, then drain. Add taco seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
- Layer ingredients in the dish: start with a tortilla, spread 1/3 of the refried beans, top with 1/3 of the meat, and sprinkle cheese.
- Add a second tortilla, followed by 1/2 of the rice, 1/2 of the salsa, 1/2 of the corn, and more cheese.
- Repeat with a third tortilla, 1/3 beans, 1/3 meat, and cheese.
- Finish with a fourth tortilla, remaining beans, meat, corn, rice, salsa, and cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy this cheesy, flavorful, and filling casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite!
